First 5 Things to do in Ireland

Welcome to Ireland, foreigner! You put forth effort, invested time, pursued your goals, and eventually achieved your ambitions. But first, you must fill out some paperwork and apply for things like GNIB and PPS. Don't worry, I'll explain them all in brief notes. Are you ready?

1) Address 

When you come to Ireland, you must change your address (If you are not an EU citizen). 

2) GNIB Application

GNIB (The Garda National Immigration Bureau) Status and GNIB card holders are required for long-term education in Ireland. This way, you can have a long-term permit in Ireland and a GNIB card instead of an ID. For GNIB, you must register online. You can make an appointment by visiting the GNIB website and downloading the app called GNIB. 

P.S: It is useful to constantly refresh the page :)

3) PPS Number

The PPS number is the number required to have a work permit. You must register on the PPS website and follow up on the application status by submitting the required documents (such as proof of address, passport photo, and required letter from the place you applied for) through the site and then checking the site.

4) Leap Card

The TFI Leap Card is a contactless smart card for automated fare collection overseen by Transport for Ireland. You must complete the necessary information on https://www.studentleapcard.ie in order to apply for the Student Leap Card, which entitles you to discounted rides on the Dublin Bus, Luas, and other forms of public transportation. After that, you may pick up your student leap card by going to the office with the reference number in your email and the student certificate you obtained from the school.

5) Open a Bank Account

You must schedule an appointment in advance to open a bank account with one of the banks that your school has a contract with. To acquire earlier dates, I recommend scheduling an appointment with branches outside of the city center rather than those in the center. Don't forget to bring your passport, the bank account letter you received from the school, the paperwork that will show your address, and the PPS number, if applicable, to your appointment.

I hope it was all explanatory. Even though it can sometimes be a problematic process, remember that you can achieve anything! Take care of yourself. Enjoy Ireland and don’t forget to follow your dreams :)

Aug 29, 2022